Thursday, May 5, marks the National Day of Prayer, an annual observance that invites Americans to “pray for the nation.” In light of this historic event, which was created by Congress in 1952 and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman, we’ll explore four powerful Bible verses that implore us to seek the Lord.
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First and foremost, there’s Romans 8:26, a Scripture reminding believers how the Holy Spirit will help us in our moments of weakness — and pain.
When we feel we can’t move forward and when we are gripped by fear or pain, even our “groans” are heard by the Lord. This Scripture is a powerful reminder for any of us who have faced profound challenges:
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” – Romans 8:26 (NIV)
The next verse, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, comes with a simple yet profound reminder about the importance of prayer. The Lord doesn’t want us to seek Him only in our moments of desperation; He wants us to pray in any and all circumstances.
This Scripture encourages us to invoke God without quitting. As we navigate the ups and downs of life, prayer should be a constant to guide us through any season.
“Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)
Next comes Matthew 26:41, which speaks about temptation, the power of being discerning — and invoking God — to fight back against it.
Amid today’s chaotic and distracting culture, prayer should be an essential ingredient in each believer’s daily spiritual walk. Take time to pray for friends, loved ones, our nation, and God’s path for your life.
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” – Matthew 26:41 (NIV)
And that brings us to the final verses we’ll explore on this National Day of Prayer. With social and cultural chaos raging and causing anxiety and stress among many, Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us where we can turn for a constant source of sanity and peace.
These Scriptures implore believers not to be “anxious about anything” and take every concern to God in prayer.
But beyond a call to turn to the Lord, Philippians 4:6-7 also discusses the “peace of God,” which is powerful enough to overcome any bit of internal chaos and tragedy we’re facing. It is through this peace that our hearts and minds can be guarded in Christ.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)
Be sure to tune in to the National Day of Prayer event tonight at 8 p.m. ET with CBN News:
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